2019-01-18 01:34:51
THE WINDOW TO THE WEST Perched on the edge of sunburned cliffs, Wall takes its name from the rugged ramparts that form the north rim of the Badlands. Set among the picturesque backdrop of expansive plains and the breathtaking views of the Badlands, Wall offers all the expected and plenty of the unexpected. This charming town, filled with hometown hospitality, makes the perfect home base to experience all the amazing things the area has to offer. Wall was established in the summer of 1907 as a railroad station for the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad. In January 1908, it was formally incorporated as the city of Wall. During that period, a U.S. Post Route was introduced, schools were built, phone lines went in and the Cheyenne Valley Electric Company was established. From then, Wall has seen continuous growth. Grain elevators were built to serve farmers in the region and a town dam was constructed to provide water for fi e protection. A train depot, blacksmith, post offie and drug store were offered to make life easier for residents. The growing population even had access to entertainment options within the town, with a restaurant and bar popping up at the same time. More than a hundred years later, the city of Wall remains an iconic destination for travelers. As you approach the city limits from the east on I-90 at Exit 110 you will spot a life-size Brontosaurus towering over the interstate, signaling your arrival to Wall. Expect a hearty welcome and small-town friendliness during your time here. With just over 800 year-round residents, Wall is well equipped to provide services, dining and lodging to accommodate its 2 million annual visitors. The town maintains its small-town charm and western spirit, making it a staple stop to stretch your legs, or stay awhile to explore. Stroll down Wall’s Main Street and take in some of the town’s best shopping and dining. You’ll find boutiques with Black Hills Gold jewelry, Badlands souvenirs and handmade gifts, as well as shops offering locally made fudge and wines. A variety of dining choices dot the street. Choose among classics like thick steaks and fresh pizza while sipping on an ice-cold beer after a busy day of exploring. ATTRACTIONS Wall serves as the gateway to South Dakota’s fin st attractions and opportunities in the surrounding region. Plan a multi-day exploration through the area, giving you ample time to experience it all. Family-friendly accommodations, comfortable campgrounds, bed & breakfasts and motels provide fist-class customer service and are eager to host your overnight stays. The National Grasslands Visitor Center, located on Main Street, invites visitors to explore the 20 national grasslands and represents Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. It is a great resource for rockhounding maps and for understanding the area’s various agriculture land uses. In the Exhibit Room, visitors discover displays on wildlife, Great Plains history, grazing management, human artifacts, grassland ecosystems and more. Main Street is also home to the No. 1 Roadside Attraction in America — Wall Drug Store. What began with a simple marketing idea in the 1930s has grown to more than 76,000-square-feet of shopping and free attractions, and is open year-round. For some family fun, Wall Drug’s Backyard is a must during your visit. Ride on the popular, giant Jackalope, and then gather your group to snap a picture in front of a roaring T. rex. Savor home-style dishes, such as hot beef sandwiches and handmade doughnuts, at the Western Art Gallery Restaurant while surrounded by the largest Western art collection in the country. OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Get some fresh air and take in your surroundings on the city bike path that follows the Badlands wall ridge. Or, stroll through the city park that has a shaded picnic area, playground, free swimming pool and tennis court. Golf enthusiasts should make plans to play a round at the city’s nine-hole public golf course, located southwest of the city — it’s one of the longest golf courses in the state. SPECIAL EVENTS Year-round events in Wall give you tons of reasons to keep coming back. The hoots and hollers of rodeo action fill the air throughout the summer. Join the fun at the Wall Regional High School Rodeo, held in June. The town comes alive during the annual Wall Celebration, July 12 to 14, 2019, with live music, a parade, rodeo, children’s activities and more. Motorcycle riders are invited to the annual Wall Crawl that’s held in conjunction with the Sturgis® Motorcycle Rally™, Aug. 10, 2019. The town will host Wheelin’ to Wall on Sept. 28, 2019. This recreational bike ride is perfect for avid and casual cyclists. In early October, celebrate the changing seasons with loads of family fun at the Wall in the Fall festival. For Wall business listings, turn to page 166.
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